9.32 Castle Crags Trail, commencing from outside the park
Magic Castle, the real deal Castle Crags (back) viewed from the ridge above Castle Lake, a few miles distant. (notice Mt. Lassen in backround) The title might prompt one to ask the question. What’s with this out the park business? We’re not talking baseball are we? Mismanagement of finances by the State of California has forced the closure of many state parks, Castle Crags being one of them. In order to get to the trailhead, one has to negotiate a steep mountainside of a mile-and-half per foot. When the park gate is open, one drives the car to the trailhead instead—very civilized. A visit to this park is a unique experience. Viewing and climbing on the mystical crag formations, including a hike of 8 miles with an elevation gain just touching on 3,000 feet, makes it memorable, if not muscle aching. Our editor, who does not sweat much, looked like she had just showered. It was also tough coming off some strenuous earlier hikes. The Dome Gazing into the valley We sent Ro...